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Polygenic Risk Scores

Polygenic Risk Scores (PRS) are a way to estimate an individual’s genetic risk for certain traits or diseases based on variations in multiple genes. Unlike single-gene tests, PRS considers the cumulative effect of many small genetic differences across the genome. By analyzing a person’s DNA, researchers can calculate a score that reflects their likelihood of developing conditions like heart disease or diabetes. This score can help guide personalized health strategies, although it's important to remember that lifestyle and environment also play significant roles in overall health.

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    Polygenic risk scores (PRS) are numerical values that estimate an individual's likelihood of developing certain traits or diseases based on their genetic makeup. These scores combine information from multiple genes, each contributing a small effect. By analyzing a person's genetic data, researchers can calculate a score that reflects their genetic predisposition to conditions like heart disease or diabetes. While a higher score suggests a greater risk, it's important to remember that environmental factors and lifestyle choices also play significant roles in health outcomes. Thus, PRS serves as a tool for understanding risk, not a definitive predictor.